MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. – Behind strong pitching from Andi Williamson and key base running, Marshall softball was able to jump out to an early lead and defeat Akron 3-1.

In the Thundering Herd’s first game of the day Saturday in the College of Charleston Cougar Classic, it would use a combination from all facets of the game to get its fifth win of the season.

Williamson (3-2) was solid in the circle for Marshall. The junior and West Virginia native allowed only one run, struck out six while allowing only three hits, and walked two in a complete game victory. Her defense was solid as well, committing no errors during the game.

With the bat and on the bases, Marshall created its runs. Rebecca Gamby got things started with a double in the bottom of the first inning plating Ashley Gue. In the third inning, Pinch runner Kristina Braxton put the green and white up two runs by scoring off a throwing error by the Zip catcher while MU was attempting a double steal. Another throwing error in the inning by the catcher while pinch runner, Jessica Hughes attempted a stolen base pushed the lead to 3-0.

Akron (3-5) scored their one run in the sixth with solo shot from Katie Gross, but Williamson continued her solid performance to guide her squad to the victory.

Marshall (5-3) collected eight hits total, including two each from Gue, Taylor Thompson, and Melissa Loesing. Gamby, with her ninth hit of the season, has notched a hit in all eight games the Herd has played in so far.

“Our slappers were the difference in the game, accounting for six of our eight hits. They did a great job of the small ball, setting things up for the stolen bases and for us to produce runs,” said Shonda Stanton, the Herd’s head coach.

“Gamby continues to hit the ball so solid and producing. Andi pitched a heck of a game and good to see what we got out of her start to finish.”

“It’s good to get back to winning,” Stanton concluded following the game.

Game two of the day for Marshall is scheduled for 6 p.m. against Morehead State. Stay tuned to www.HerdZone.com and the athletics twitter account, @Herd_Zone for updates on the status of the game due to weather in the area.